The Gods sell when they give. / Glory is paid for with disgrace. / Poor are the happy, for they are / Just what passes.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Giving often demands repayment, glory brings disgrace, and happiness is fleeting.
- In plain terms
- Gods take back what they give, glory costs reputation, and happiness ends.
- What can you take from it?
- Expect trade-offs and impermanence in gifts and success.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What did giving cost you?
- How lasting is your joy?
Another view
Not all gifts or glories come with such costs.
More from Fernando Pessoa
Myth is the nothing that is all.
Permalink to quote #2 All beginnings are unvoluntary.
Permalink to quote #3 I fulfilled my duty against destiny. / Uselessly? No, for I fulfilled it.
Permalink to quote #4
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